Push and peel pack for dispensing medicants

ABSTRACT

A push and peel child resistant and senior friendly tamper evident package comprising a blister sheet with U cuts for pushing an outer layer of interior tabs, the blister sheet having blister pockets projecting from a front side thereof, a rupturable foil layer being adhered to the blister layer and reinforcing the paperboard material adhered to the foil layer, an inner data layer with diecut oval holes, the paperboard layer having a tear strip formed therein, the tear strip being defined by a cut into the paperboard layer from the side thereof adhered to the foil layer, the cut extending only a certain percentage of the total thickness of the paperboard such that a controlled delamination of the paperboard layer occurs when the tear strip is removed. This provides a precise reinforcement of the foil layer.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a tamper evident, senior friendly and child resistant package of the type operable by means of a combination punch out of the inner card hole or push on the existing hole to release the lead area of the tab on the outer layer and with a full delamination feature tear strip for unsupported foil and a periphery delamination feature for paper.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Blister packs are well known in the art and are widely used to package individual items such as different forms of medication including tablets, capsules and the like. In addition, the packaging of a small amount of liquid in an individual blister is known.

Usually, the item or product is accessed through the rear of the blister pack which is provided with a tear strip.

As aforementioned, there are three different properties which any packaging ideally possesses. The first is that the package should be tamper evident such that there will be provided a clear indication when the package has been subject to tampering. A second feature is that the package be child resistant. As aforementioned, such packages are frequently used for medication and it is inherently desirable that one prevents young children from accessing the contents of the blister pack.

However, in making such packaging child resistant, it is also important that the package still be readily openable by those taking the medication. Since the most frequent users of medication are seniors, one must take into account the limits of their ability when they are suffering from various physical problems.

A conventional blister package usually comprises a laminate of a blister layer having article receiving pockets formed therein and with the article receiving pockets being covered by a foil backing layer. This foil backing layer is usually a form of an aluminum foil which is rupturable to permit access to the product in the blister pocket. While such a package is inherently tamper evident unless the whole foil layer is replaced, it is not very child resistant and indeed can prove attractive to some children.

A further feature which must always be considered in designing such products is the ability to efficiently manufacture the package at a reasonable cost. It is also highly desirable that the results be reproducible. This child resistant push tab feature was also invented for the purpose of adding electronic printed circuitry to the packaging. When electronic circuitry is bent, the circuitry can break and render the circuitry useless.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide blister pack packaging which is tamper evident, senior friendly, child resistant and capable of adding electronic circuitry.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide blister pack packaging which is easy to manufacture and overcomes some of the deficiencies of the prior art packaging.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a child resistant and senior friendly tamper evident package, the package comprising a blister sheet having at least one blister pocket projecting from a front side thereof, a rupturable foil layer sealed to a back side of the blister sheet to form a continuous cover over the blister pocket, the foil layer having a thickness and being formed of a material which can be ruptured to provide access to the pocket, a reinforcing layer of a paperboard material, the reinforcing layer having a first side with at least portions thereof adhered to the foil layer, a tear strip formed in the reinforcing layer, the tear strip overlying the at least one blister pocket, a tab formed at one end of the tear strip, the tab being non adhered to the foil layer, and a data layer overlying the blister sheet on the front side thereof, the data layer having at least one diecut portion formed therein, the at least one diecut portion being in registry with the tab such that pressure on the at least one diecut portion will permit the tab member to be lifted and the tear strip removed.

In a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a child resistant and senior friendly tamper evident package, the package comprising a blister sheet having at least one blister pocket projecting from a front side thereof, a rupturable foil layer sealed to a back side of the blister sheet to form a continuous cover over the blister pocket, the foil layer having a thickness and being formed of a material which can be ruptured to provide access to the blister pocket, a reinforcing layer of a paperboard material, the reinforcing layer having a first side with at least portions thereof adhered to the foil layer, the paperboard layer having a tear strip formed therein, a tab member being located at one end of the tear strip, a data layer overlying the front side of the blister sheet, at least one diecut portion formed in the front data layer, the blister layer having a diecut formed therein, both the diecut portion and the diecut formed in the blister sheet being in registry with the tab member such that pressure applied on said diecut portion will cause the tab member to lift and permit removal of the tear strip.

In one embodiment of the invention, the delamination of the paperboard and the ability to eject the product from the pocket is controlled by providing a line of weakening formed in the paperboard on the face of the paperboard adjacent to the foil. This line of weakening permits the product to be dispensed from the blister pocket with less effort than would otherwise be the case. At the same time, the line of weakening is not evident to a child since it does not extend through that portion of the paperboard which remains covering the blister pocket.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the tear strip may be defined by a partial cut through a portion of the paperboard. In this embodiment, the paperboard would be adhered to the foil layer and once the tab is pulled, a controlled delamination of the paperboard within the tear strip will occur. This will leave a portion of the paperboard still adhered to the foil to provide a further reinforcement and add effectiveness in its ability to prevent children from accessing the product.

After removal of the paperboard material, the foil may be removed by pushing the foil in the area of the depression formed in the blister layer. This prevents removal of the foil with less effort than would otherwise be the case.

The contents in the blister pocket are conventionally tablets or capsules or the like.

The materials utilized in the present invention are well known in the art. Thus, the blister layer may be formed with a number of blister pockets projecting from a front side thereof, each designed to receive a unit dosage of a pharmaceutical product or indeed, some other product. The sheet may comprise a normally rectangular continuous blister sheet of flexible clear material which cannot be easily torn or ruptured. Typically, such a film would be a vinyl thermoplastic film having a thickness in excess of 10 mil.

The rupturable film sealed to the back side of the blister sheet is also well known in the art and may be selected from many known materials. Typically, such rupturable foils are of aluminum material having a thickness in the range of 1 mil with 15 lbs of tissue paper laminated to the foil and which may be joined to the blister sheet by conventional adhesives such as heat seal or coatings well known in the art.

In those applications wherein a paper layer is utilized, it again may use a heat sealable adhesive and comprise paper having a weight of between 13 pounds to 17 pounds.

The reinforcing layer is preferably a paper product such as paperboard. The tear strips in the paperboard layer may be defined by parallel lines of perforations or slits in the outwardly facing side to thereby form longitudinal tear lines which define the tear strip. At one end of the strip, there may be a tab which is not sealed to the foil/paper layer.

In those applications wherein only unsupported foil is utilized, the foil overlying the cavity containing the product is sealed to the tab, but not the lead area of the tab. In this particular embodiment of the present invention, the line of weakening defining the tab may extend into the paperboard for a depth of preferably between 60 and 80% of the thickness of the paperboard and more preferably, approximately 50% of the thickness at the tab score line.

Where the tab joins the tear strip, there is preferably a cut from the inner facing side of the paperboard which extends approximately 50% of the thickness of the paperboard depending on the solidity of the product to be dispensed.

In the above described embodiment, there is also provided a line of weakening which is cut into the paperboard from the inner side thereof at the position where the capsule will be ejected from the blister pocket. This line of weakening assists in dispensing of the product and may extend into the paperboard for a distance of between 60 and 80% of the thickness thereof depending on the product to be dispensed. Note the shape of the line of weakening can be changed to suit the product. Thus, the shape of the line weakening or diecut could either be straight or oval in the precise form of the tablet or pill. The amount of cutting and the configuration can control the effort required to access the product.

In one embodiment of the present invention, there may be provided a blister layer having a diecut formed therein. The diecut portion is again in registry with the tab member such that pressure applied on the diecut portion would cause the tab member to lift and thereby permit removal of the tear strip. This embodiment is useful wherein there is a plurality of rows formed in a package. The outer rows could be formed in the manner originally described—i.e. wherein the data layer alone has a diecut portion in registry with the tab. However, with respect with the inner rows, since the blister sheet is continuous, the diecut portion in the blister layer is required.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Having thus generally described the invention, reference will be made to the accompanying drawings illustrating embodiments thereof, in which:

FIG. 1 is an exploded view illustrating the various components of a package according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view along the lines 2-2 of FIG. 1 when the package is assembled;

FIG. 3 is a view similar to FIG. 2 illustrating partial opening of the package by delamination of the tear strip;

FIG. 4 is a view similar to FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrating the final step in the dispensing of the capsule from the package;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating the first step of FIG. 3 in opening the package;

FIG. 6 is an exploded view illustrating a further embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view along the lines 7-7 of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a view similar to FIG. 7 illustrating partial opening of the package by delamination of the tear strip;

FIG. 9 is a further cross sectional view illustrating the final step in dispensing of the capsule from the package;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating the first step shown in FIG. 8 in opening the package; and

FIG. 11 is a perspective partially exploded view of a package according to one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to the drawings in a greater detail and by reference characters thereto, there is illustrated in FIG. 6 an exploded view of a first embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, there is provided a blister layer 10 which has a plurality of blister pockets 12 formed therein in a conventional manner.

Designed to be placed on top of a blister layer 10 is a data layer 14. Data layer 14 that may carry pertinent information has cut-outs to receive the blister pockets and diecut perforated ovals 11 formed therein. To this end, data layer 14 is generally of a paperboard material.

Secured to the underside of blister layer 10 is a rupturable foil layer 16. Such rupturable foil layers are well known in the art.

A paperboard reinforcing layer 18 is secured to rupturable foil layer 16 by means of a conventional adhesive. Paperboard layer 18 has a first side which lies adjacent to rupturable foil layer 16 and a second exteriorly facing side.

As is known in the art, tear strips 24 are formed in paperboard layer 18 as described in greater detail herein below. Tear strips 24 each individually overly one of the blister pockets 12 and are defined by a traditional line of weakening.

Associated with each tear strip 24 is a tab 26. Tabs 26 are sealed to foil layer 16 and, as may be seen in FIGS. 2 to 4, each tab 26 is defined by a slit 28 which extends completely through paperboard layer 18. However, at the point where tab 26 meets tear strip 24, there is provided a further slit 32 extending from first side 20 and extending for a depth of approximately 70% of the thickness of the paperboard layer 18.

There is also provided a slit 30 at the distal end of tear strip 24. A partial cut 32, as may be seen in FIGS. 2 through 4, extends through first side 20 of paperboard layer 18. However, partial cut 32 extends to a depth substantially less than that of slit 32 for reasons which will become apparent hereinbelow. Typically, partial cut 30 may extend into paperboard layer a distance approximately equal to 30% of the thickness of paperboard layer 18.

In order to provide access to capsule 40 which is contained in blister pocket 12, tab 26 is lifted as indicated by arrow 38 in FIG. 3. As the continued lifting motion is applied, an upper approximately 30% of paperboard layer 18 will tend to delaminate. The extent of the delamination can be controlled by the depth of slit 32.

After removing approximately 30% of paperboard layer 18, there will remain 70% of the paperboard layer. However, where partial cut 32 is located, there will be only 40% of the paperboard layer thus permitting easier exit of capsule 40 when pressure is applied to blister pockets 12 indicated by arrow 42.

Referring to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 5, many similar components are illustrated and similar reference numerals are employed for such components, the reference numerals being in the 100.

Thus, there is illustrated a blister layer 110 which has a plurality of blister pockets 112 formed therein in a conventional manner. A data layer 114 which may carry pertinent information has cutouts to receive the blister pockets 112. Also formed in blister layer 110 are a plurality of U shaped cuts 115.

The arrangement is similar to the previously described embodiment with the exception that U shaped cuts 115 permit the lifting of the tab portion by application of pressure through diecut perforator holes 111. Thus, one is able to then grip the tab portion 126 and perform the operation as previously described.

Reference will be now be had to FIG. 11 which illustrates a pack which utilizes both the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 5 and FIGS. 6 to 10. As shown, there is provided a child resistant package 210 having first and second panels 212 and 214. Panels 212 and 214 may be folded onto each other and a cover panel 216 over the same. Naturally, securement means or the like may be provided.

As shown by dotted lines 218, there is provided a blister layer as is known in the art. Blister layer 218 is also illustrated in an exploded view with respect to panel 214. Blister layer 218 includes a plurality of blister pockets 220 which on the under side (not shown) are provided with a foil layer. A plurality of outer pockets 220 are arranged such that a plurality of push through diecut ovals 222 extend about the periphery of the foil layer. On the under side, there are provided tear strips 224 with tabs 226.

There are also provided a plurality of center blister pockets 228 which have the diecut oval 230 formed in the data layer. In this arrangement, the blister layer will contain a plurality of generally U-shaped cuts therethrough as shown in the embodiment FIGS. 1 to 5. Thus, a combination of the two arrangements may be used.

With respect to the use of the perforated diecut ovals 11, it will be understood that if desired the ovals might be completely removed at the time of diecutting. This would provide access to the tab line and registry therewith.

It will be understood that the above described embodiments are for purposes of illustration only and changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. 

1. A child resistant and senior friendly tamper evident package, the package comprising: a blister sheet having at least one blister pocket projecting from a front side thereof; a rupturable foil layer sealed to a back side of the blister sheet to form a continuous cover over the blister pocket, the foil layer having a thickness and being formed of a material which can be ruptured to provide access to the pocket; a reinforcing layer of a paperboard material, said reinforcing layer having a first side with at least portions thereof adhered to the foil layer; a tear strip formed in said reinforcing layer, said tear strip overlying said at least one blister pocket; a tab formed at one end of said tear strip, said tab being non adhered to said foil layer; and a data layer overlying said blister sheet on said front side thereof, said data layer having at least one diecut portion formed therein, said at least one diecut portion being in registry with said tab such that pressure on said at least one diecut portion will permit said tab member to be lifted and said tear strip removed.
 2. The package of claim 1 further including a paper layer secured to said rupturable foil layer under said paperboard material, said paperboard layer being adhered to said paper layer outside of said tear strips such that upon said removal of said tear strips access may be had to said foil layer and paper layer.
 3. The package of claim 1 further including at least one line of weakening formed in said paperboard layer extending inwardly from said first side of the paperboard, said at least one line of weakening being located in a portion overlying the blister pocket, said at least one line of weakening extending into said paperboard for only a portion of the thickness of said paperboard.
 4. The package of claim 1 wherein said tear strip is defined by a line of weakening extending thereabout, said tear strip line of weakening extending into said paperboard from a second side thereof for a distance of between 60% and 80% of the thickness of said paperboard.
 5. A child resistant and senior friendly tamper evident package, the package comprising: a blister sheet having at least one blister pocket projecting from a front side thereof; a rupturable foil layer sealed to a back side of the blister sheet to form a continuous cover over the blister pocket, the foil layer having a thickness and being formed of a material which can be ruptured to provide access to the blister pocket; a reinforcing layer of a paperboard material, said reinforcing layer having a first side with at least portions thereof adhered to said foil layer; said paperboard layer having a tear strip formed therein, a tab member being located at one end of said tear strip; a data layer overlying said front side of said blister sheet; at least one diecut portion formed in said front data layer, said blister layer having a diecut formed therein, both said diecut portion and said diecut formed in said blister sheet being in registry with said tab member such that pressure applied on said diecut portion will cause said tab member to lift and permit removal of said tear strip.
 6. The package of claim 5 further including a paper layer secured to said rupturable foil under said paperboard material, said paperboard layer being adhered to said paper layer outside of said tear strips such that upon said removal of said tear strips, access may be had to said foil layer and paper layer.
 7. The package of claim 5 further including at least one line of weakening formed in said paperboard layer extending inwardly from said first side of said paperboard, said at least one line of weakening being located in a portion overlying said blister pocket, said at least one line of weakening extending into said paperboard for only a portion of the thickness of the paperboard.
 8. A child resistant and senior friendly tamper evident package, the package comprising: a blister sheet having a plurality of blister pockets projecting from a front side thereof, said blister pockets forming at least three rows; rupturable foil layers sealed to a back side of said blister sheet to form a continuous cover over said blister pockets, the foil layer having a thickness and being formed of a material which can be ruptured to provide access to said pocket; a reinforcing layer of paperboard material, said reinforcing layer having a first side with at least portions thereof adhered to the foil layer; a plurality of tear strips formed in said reinforcing layer, each of said tear strips being associated with and overlying a single blister pocket; a tab formed at one end of each of said tear strips, each of said tabs being non adhered to said foil layer; and a data layer overlying said blister sheet on said front side thereof, said data layer having diecut portions formed therein, each of said diecut portions being in registry with one of said tabs, at least one inner row having a diecut formed in said blister sheet, both said diecut portions in said front data layer and said diecut in said blister sheet being in registry with said tab member such that pressure applied on said diecut portion will allow said tab member to lift and permit removal of a tear strip. 